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Frozen Shrimp. A Last-Minute Meal Savior

Boredom and time-fatigue are visitors to my kitchen more often than I’d like to admit. And when they’re next to me and I have to prepare dinner, I muster all my strength not to run to the phone and order food. I found a solution that I’d like to share with you during those nights when a delicious meal in a short period of time that checks off the healthy boxes seems like a daydream: frozen shrimp. Thank you, frozen shrimp! You have saved me more than once a month for a very long time.

Kids love shrimp. They’re small enough to eat with their fingers, can be used as a vehicle for scooping, are mild enough to pair with a number of flavors that your family likes and it’s just a great nutritious protein. If they don’t like it at first, keep trying and as they watch others in your family eat them, they will too.

I prefer the frozen uncooked shrimp, usually opting for the 26-30 count. This number refers to how many of the shrimp you get in a pound. The lower the number, the bigger the shrimp. Count out about 4 for each kid and 6 for each adult then place in a bowl of warm water to thaw. This process will take about a half hour. If you don’t have that much time, keep the warm water running and break apart the shrimp as the ice melts. Once the shrimps are a bit soft, remove from the water. You now have a lovely protein ready to use.

What to make with the shrimp? If it’s springtime and the new lettuces, ramps, asparagus, etc. are in full display at your farmers market, try our Springtime Salad with Shrimp, Asparagus and Avocado Dressing. Or try our Penne with Garlic Shrimp, Tomatoes and Zucchini recipe served with your favorite vegetables. Either way, having frozen shrimp in your freezer is the best tip I can give to preparing a quick, healthy and delicious meal when inspiration is nowhere in sight. Enjoy!